How do tick spot‑on treatments work for cats? - briefly
Spot‑on tick products for felines are applied to the skin at the back of the neck, where they disperse through the animal’s sebaceous glands and enter the bloodstream, delivering systemic protection. Active ingredients such as fipronil or selamectin disrupt the parasite’s nervous system, leading to paralysis and death.
How do tick spot‑on treatments work for cats? - in detail
Tick spot‑on products for felines contain acaricidal agents such as fipronil, imidacloprid, selamectin, or fluralaner. When applied to the skin at the nape of the neck, the formulation spreads across the coat by natural oil transfer and grooming behavior. The active molecule penetrates the superficial lipid layer, enters the bloodstream, and distributes through the dermal capillary network to reach peripheral tissues.
The systemic component acts on the nervous system of ticks. Binding to γ‑aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors or nicotinic acetylcholine receptors disrupts inhibitory neurotransmission, causing hyperexcitation, paralysis, and death. Some compounds also interfere with glutamate‑gated chloride channels, leading to loss of ion homeostasis. These mechanisms affect ticks that attach to the host within hours of exposure and continue to act on immature stages that later feed on the cat.
Pharmacokinetic properties determine duration of protection. Lipophilic molecules persist in the sebaceous glands and hair follicles, providing a reservoir that releases the drug gradually. Half‑life values range from 2 weeks (imidacloprid) to 12 weeks (fluralaner). The extended release maintains effective plasma concentrations, preventing attachment and reproduction of the parasite throughout the dosing interval.
Application guidelines ensure optimal efficacy. The recommended volume is calibrated to the animal’s weight; excess product can be absorbed orally during grooming, potentially increasing systemic exposure. The site of administration should be shaved or free of debris to allow direct contact with the skin. After application, the cat should be kept from bathing or swimming for at least 24 hours to avoid dilution of the product.
Safety considerations include avoidance of use on kittens younger than the minimum age, on pregnant or lactating females unless labeled, and on animals with known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient. Adverse effects, when they occur, are typically limited to mild dermal irritation or transient salivation.
Resistance management relies on rotating products with different active chemistries and integrating environmental control measures such as regular cleaning of bedding and treatment of the surrounding area. This reduces selection pressure on tick populations and prolongs the effectiveness of topical therapies.